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Mesquite, TX – September 18, 2018 – The Mesquite Police Department announced it is joining the free mobile app Neighbors to enhance its efforts to communicate with the community on public safety news and information. Police Chief Charles Cato said, “The President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing identifies Technology and Social Media as one of the fundamental pillars for effective crime reduction while building public trust. We feel the Neighbors app is a new tool we can add to our toolbox of resources to keep Mesquite safe.”

Mesquite citizens can download the free Neighbors app on their smart device via iOS and Android at http://download.ring.com/mesquitepd and join their neighborhood area. Participants can use the free app to monitor neighborhood activity, share crime and public safety-related information as well as receive alerts from the Mesquite Police Department. The free app uses information, video and photos captured through home security camera systems provided by Ring. Citizens do not have to purchase a Ring product or subscribe to any service to participate in the public safety app. Ring security system products use existing home Wi-Fi network to create a grid of security around a home, and become activated when someone approaches the door or comes in a range of a security camera.

Cato explained his department will actively monitor the app for crime activity and use it as an investigative tool. He stated, “This program will empower us to expand our network of surveillance in Mesquite neighborhoods and work together with residents to keep Mesquite safe. The Neighbors app has been instrumental in catching package thieves, preventing burglaries and keeping neighborhoods safe around the country.”

Cato also reminded the public of the department’s existing Community Video Partnership that encourages properties in the city with private security systems to register with the police department. He stated, “We are asking residents and businesses across the city to register their privately owned surveillance systems so we will know the location of cameras that may assist our officers in their investigations.” The department will notify participating property owners about a crime in their area and request them to review their video footage for any tips or leads, enhancing the investigative process. The department will have no direct access to the surveillance systems. To register a private security system, residents and businesses can visit www.cityofmesquite.com/CommunityVideoPartnership.